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Deputy Cowlitz County coroner sentenced to jail

KELSO (AP) — The deputy Cowlitz County coroner who took nearly $12,000 from a dead man’s bank account is serving a 45-day jail sentence.

Jeffrey Wayne Hart of Castle Rock pleaded guilty last month to identity theft and official misconduct. He reported to jail Nov. 16. His sentence allows the 44-year-old Castle Rock man to serve part of his time in work release so he can look for a new job.

The Daily News reports Hart also must pay nearly $12,000 restitution to the family of a 65-year-old Longview man who died in June. Hart went to his apartment for a death investigation and took his debit card.